Abstract: Abstract：There are different opinions on the role of saturated fatty acids (SFA) in cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The sources of food, the parity of the SFA carbon chain, and the chain length are major factors. This article reviews the effects of saturated fatty acids on cardiovascular risk factors. In addition to medium chain SFA (MCSFA), other types of SFA can increase blood pressure. SFA is moderately harmful to vascular function. The risk of dyslipidemia caused by dairy products increases with the prolongation of intake time. Pure palm oil and coconut oil are helpful in reducing blood lipids. SFA with different odd and even carbon chains and different lengths has different risks of developing type 2 diabetes. The effects of saturated fatty acids on the risk of CVD were summarized. Generally, SFA intake increases the risk of CVD, but specific foods have different effects. Coconut oil rich in SFA can cause myocardial fibrosis. Dairy products, especially cheese, can reduce the risk of CVD. Red meat is moderately harmful to cardiovascular health.

Key words: cardiovascular diseases, lipoproteins, fatty acids